Being Observant

Selecting an Issue

Summary

第十四章讲到策略的第一步——了解自己，接下来的第十五章讲解的是第二步——观察力，第十六章则是下一步，选择一项议题。

Chapter 15 discusses the importance of being observant. Clear and sound thinking often depends on subtleties that are revealed only by attentive seeing and hearing. The keener our observation, the less likely we will be to commit to stereotypes, oversimplifications, and unwarranted assumptions.

Emotions in Expressions

For: a nodding of the head, an encouraging smile, a low “uh-huh” of assent ...

Against: a slight shaking of the head, a raising of the eyebrows, a pursing of the lips as the eyes roll upward, a frown ...

Being observant can keep our mind from wandering aimlessly. After acquiring the ability to use our senses, we should also attach importance to the reflection. By developing the habit of reflecting on our observations, we can increase the number and quality of our insights.

Chapter 16 mainly explains another essential part of thinking, selecting issues for analysis. The basic rule is "less Is more". Try to narrow the issue and focus on just one part if the individual aspects are too broad to treat adequately in the time and space at our disposal.

How to Limit an Issue

1.List as many aspects of the issue as you can.

2.Decide exactly which aspects you will address.

3.Probe the aspects you are concerned with in one or more clear, carefully focused, questions.

Thought

The way to be observant is to use all five of your senses to keep your mind from wandering aimlessly.

敏锐的观察力是让人“收心”的一种方式。当你的思维在游荡的时候，集中注意力的最好方法就是调动自己的感知，试着充分使用自己的“眼睛”去看每一个细节，用“耳朵”去聆听每一种声音，注意力就回来了。